Hep to the Hive (Manchester)
Lindy Hop, Balboa, Shag, Solo Jazz, Blues
- Where
- Manchester
- Organiser
- Swing North
About Hep to the Hive (Manchester)
Hep to the Hive is the Manchester swing weekender run by the volunteer team at Swing North. The 2026 information pack describes a Friday to Sunday weekend of classes, social parties and live music, based around the Halle St Peter's and Halle St Michael's venues, with a Saturday midnight party at Aatma. Friday starts with a welcome party featuring Ineza and her band. Saturday night has The Big Easy plus a special guest, and the 2026 party was dress-up or bee themed. Sunday finishes with a live music party, wear-green theme. Classes at the 2026 event spanned Lindy Hop at beginner to advanced level, Balboa, Collegiate Shag basics, solo jazz, a solo jazz routine class, a Boogie Woogie taster, a blues taster and a free Northern Soul taster. There is also a lunchtime open jam where you can bring an instrument, a free physio session for dancers, and restorative yoga. It suits a wide range of levels, including genuine beginners in Lindy Hop, Balboa and Shag, and anyone who wants a friendly northern weekend. The event is for adults only, as under-18s are not allowed.
What to expect
Booking is online, and some classes or parties may be payable at the Info Desk if places remain. Swing North has a no-refunds policy but you can sell or swap places by forwarding your booking email. Some classes sell out. Bring a water bottle and travel mug, as outside food and alcohol are not allowed. Service dogs are welcome but pets are not. A safety team and code of conduct apply. Check the Swing North shop for the next edition.
New to festivals?
Most UK weekenders welcome improvers and up, and many add a taster or beginners' track – check the organiser's page. Our guide to swing festivals covers passes, tracks and what to pack.
Sources
Checked against the festival's own website on Friday 30 October 2026. Dates and prices change – confirm before you book.
More UK festivals
- Oxford Lindy Exchange (OLX) – Oxford
- Cambridge Lindy Exchange (CLX) – Cambridge
- Edinburgh Lindy Exchange (ELX) – Edinburgh
- Save the Fast Dance (Cambridge) – Cambridge
- Swing Sanctuary (Cambridge) – Cambridge
- Blues at the 'Bridge (Cambridge) – Cambridge
- WGC Swing Festival (Welwyn Garden City) – Welwyn Garden City
- Savoy Jazz Jam (Watford) – Watford